Archive: July 31, 2025

ASSOCHAM Hosts Roundtable on Adult Immunization with a focus on Influenza in Bangalore

Bangalore, 31st July 2025: The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)organized a high-level roundtable discussion on the theme “Current Challenges of Adult Immunization and a Way Forward” in Bangalore, Karnataka.

The event brought together leading medical professionals, policymakers, public health experts, and representatives from both government and private sectors to discuss the critical need for strengthening adult immunization in India, with a focus on infectious diseases such as influenza.

In his opening remarks, Animesh Rai, Co-Chair, ASSOCHAM Karnataka State Development Council, emphasized the importance of adult immunization in the context of India’s shifting demographics. “India is projected to have over 300 million adults above the age of 50 by 2040. In such a scenario, adult immunization is not optional—it is a public health imperative,” he stated.

Highlighting the urgency of the issue, Dr. M. Hanumantha Rao, Director, AIIMS Madurai, Government of India, noted, “Prevention is better than cure. There is a need to build awareness around influenza and the benefits of vaccination in preventing Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI). Ideally, influenza vaccination should be made mandatory—starting with vulnerable populations and then expanding to all adults. However, the lack of robust data and limited awareness of disease burden remain key challenges.”

Dr. Radhakrishna Ramesh, Deputy Director, Directorate of Health & Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka, remarked, “In today’s world, where new respiratory viral infections emerge almost every year, it is essential for people at risk—especially those above 50 and individuals with comorbidities—to get vaccinated against influenza.” Pushpak Khare, Regional Director – Commercial Development, Abbott India highlighted that India faces a significant dual burden of non-communicable and infectious diseases, including influenza or flu, which increases the risk of complications leading to hospitalization and extended ICU stays. Vaccination isn’t just for children—adults also need protection, especially against infections like the flu. It’s a simple yet powerful preventive measure that can make a meaningful difference, particularly for those at higher risk such as older adults and people with chronic conditions or weakened immunity.

Dr. Surendra K.S., Medical Superintendent, Jayanagar General Hospital, Bangalore, emphasized the long-term health benefits of vaccination. “The influenza vaccine can add years to one’s life. We must prioritize vaccinating vulnerable groups, as it significantly reduces the severity and impact of infection,” he said.

The roundtable concluded with a consensus on the urgent need for increased awareness, accessible vaccination programs, and a coordinated strategy to address the adult immunization gap in India.

Comau Completes its Acquisition of Automha, Expanding the Companies’ Leadership in Advanced Logistics Automation

Turin, Bergamo – July 31, 2025 – Comau has completed its acquisition of Automha, an Italian company specializing in warehousing and automated intralogistics systems. This investment marks a significant step in Comau’s journey to expand its capabilities and market presence in the rapidly growing logistics and warehouse automation sector.

The purchase is perfectly aligned with Comau’s strategy to accelerate diversification into high-growth markets by leveraging its strong foundation in industrial robotics, software-driven automation, and human-centric technology. With Automha, Comau significantly enhances its offering of high-performance and scalable solutions, reconfirming and strengthening its Italian roots and operations.

The transaction will also ensure continuity for Automha’s existing structure and customers while enabling expanded global presence and service capabilities under the Comau brand. Automha will continue to operate with the same organization and strategic vision, keeping people, quality and innovation at its core. Franco Togni retains his position as CEO while Gianni Togni and Roberta Togni, in addition to continuing in their current roles, have joined the Comau Executive Committee to contribute to the ongoing development of both companies.

Moreover, given that Comau and Automha offer fully complementary capabilities, their collaboration will enhance the mutual project and customer portfolios of the companies.

“The acquisition of Automha represents an important step in our journey to create an even stronger Italian technology hub, and establish global leadership in the advanced automation sector. It also allows us to accelerate our growth in a high-potential market like logistics,” said Pietro Gorlier, CEO of Comau. “With Automha, we have found a partner whose complementary expertise and capabilities enable us to deliver fully integrated, scalable solutions to meet new market challenges and the evolving needs of customers around the world.”

“Joining forces with Comau is an evolution for Automha and opens exciting new opportunities for growth and innovation” added Franco Togni, Founder of Automha. “By combining our deep knowledge of logistics automation with Comau’s global scale, advanced robotics, and digital technologies, we have a greater platform to grow, innovate, and bring even more value to our clients around the world.”

Canon Named Leader in IDC MarketScape 2025 Hardcopy Remanufacturing Report

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, July 31, 2025 — Today, Canon (https://en.Canon-CNA.com) is pleased to announce that it has been named as a Leader in The IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Hardcopy Remanufacturing 2025 Vendor Assessment [1]. The report highlights the increased demand for circularity and sustainability in the print and document solutions market and takes an in-depth look at the global, regional, and local level activities of eight major industry vendors.

The study looks specifically at device and consumables remanufacturing, assessing the capabilities of those surveyed through a number of factors including types of remanufactured products, levels of innovation, cost of ownership, sales strategy and distribution. With demand for remanufactured printing technology increasing as sustainability becomes an integral business priority, the report provides a strong reference point for businesses who wish to improve the carbon footprint of their print infrastructure.

The IDC MarketScape report highlighted Canon’s strengths including its remanufacturing history and resources, citing that “Canon has been remanufacturing its products since the last millennium and has a wealth of experience and resources across the globe to meet current and future market trends for reuse”. It also noted the breadth of Canon’s office multifunction printer portfolio, highlighting. that “Canon’s remanufactured devices include monochrome and colour A3 devices and cover a wide variety of speed segments”.

Building on this, Hiro Imamura, Executive Vice President, Digital Printing & Solutions at Canon Europe comments; “With a strong heritage in sustainability and global remanufacturing and refurbishing expertise, we are well placed to help our customers make concrete steps to improve their carbon footprint and meet their environmental goals. Reusing, recycling and repairing our products for a second life is a core part of this approach and we are delighted to be recognised as a Leader in this important IDC MarketScape report. We will continue to accelerate our efforts towards the circular economy, reducing impacts across every single part of our business and expanding our sustainable product range, from our printers to our papers, to further support our customers for the future”.

About Canon’s sustainability actions

Canon is committed to achieving carbon net zero emissions by 2050 and has recently been awarded with the EcoVadis Platinum Rating for its sustainability efforts, placing it within the top 1% of companies assessed, with an overall score in the 99th percentile. This accolade highlights Canon’s strong sustainability focus throughout its global business, across crucial areas covering environmental, social and governance criteria.

Circular approach

Support for the circular economy also forms a significant part of Canon’s sustainability strategy. The robust and durable nature of Canon’s products provides a strong platform for refurbishment and remanufacturing processes – supporting the organization in its efforts to recycle parts and hardware, where possible, for a second life.

Canon remanufactures its flagship imageRUNNER ADVANCE multifunction devices, which it markets as the imageRUNNER ADVANCE ES and ES+ range in the EMEA region, and as the Refreshed Series in Japan. This robust monochrome and colour A3 range is made with at least 90%+ reused parts, undergoing intensive cleaning, part replacement and rebuilding processes at Canon’s specialist factories. This result is a like new quality product which delivers optimal performance to support different business needs. Within its production print business, Canon also remanufactures its Arizona devices to support customers in the wide format segment.

Additionally, in EMEA, Canon also refurbishes its imageRUNNER ADVANCE range to create its Certified Used (CU range) – these multifunction devices deliver quality, high performance printers, which are designed for a second life.

Canon’s second life products are also supported by regular firmware and software updates – helping customers to deliver high levels of workflow productivity with security and further contributing towards their sustainability efforts.

Recycling

Canon also has a long-established inkjet cartridge recycling programme, which began in 1996 and is available in 15 countries across Europe. At Canon Bretagne in France, Canon operates a closed loop toner cartridge recycling programme and since 2011, has established a system for collecting used toner bottles, refilling them with toner, and supplying them to the European market, helping to further reduce Canon’s plastic usage.

The Great Indian Getaway

Three curated escapes for Independence Day, where freedom comes wrapped in a perfect long weekend.

The Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas

Some getaways help you unwind. This one helps you realign.

At The Westin Himalayas, the Independence Day weekend becomes a three-day ritual that restores the body, calms the mind, and quietly celebrates freedom. Mornings begin with wholesome breakfasts at Akasa, their all-day dining restaurant. The national flag is raised with live cultural performances, Indian snacks, and a moment of shared silence. Evenings bring the Westin Saga, a Garhwali hi-tea where local brews, traditional delicacies, and the rhythm of the Ganga Aarti create a powerful sense of place.

The itinerary includes flag hoisting and cultural programming on 15 August, Matka Phod celebrations on Janmashtami (16 August), and a wellness talk with the in-house Ayurveda doctor on both 15 and 16 August. Guests can also sign up for Handpan Sound Healing sessions between 14 and 16 August, priced at INR 1500 (plus taxes) per person.

For culinary explorers, Chef Dhar presents Laapi Chokha and Flavours of North India showcase on 15 and 16 August, priced at INR 2500 plus taxes per person. The Heavenly Spa offers a deeper kind of relaxation, while Toya, their award-winning Asian restaurant, promises a refined dining experience.

Little ones are in for a world of fun, from Junior Master Chef sessions to treasure hunts and creative play at the Westin Family Kids Club.

It’s a gentle return to flavour, stillness, and connection.

Le Meridien, Ahmedabad

Check into Le Méridien Ahmedabad and check out of routine. Perfectly located in Ramdev Nagar, this contemporary new address sits in the heart of one of India’s most historically rich cities. Walk through stories of freedom at Sabarmati Ashram, trace India’s legacy at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Memorial, or stroll through Archer Art Gallery with your Unlock Art room key, granting complimentary access to one of Gujarat’s largest collections of folk, modern and fine art.

The long weekend stay is made even more inviting with Le Méridien’s Curated Escape, starting at INR 12,500 per night. The offer includes a wholesome buffet breakfast and dinner for two, complimentary dining for children under 12, and 25 percent off at Explore Spa. It’s the kind of detail that turns a simple stay into a thoughtful, well-rounded experience.

Back at the hotel, the indulgences continue. Dine at Bayleaf, where Chef Viklesh presents rich Awadhi delicacies from the Northwest Frontier. Move poolside at Drift with cocktails and city views, sip handcrafted coffee at Java+, or lose track of time over a lazy brunch at The Market. Whether you’re exploring culture or soaking in comfort, this is a weekend that lingers long after checkout.

The Westin Goa

This Independence Day weekend, swap routine for rain-washed mornings, laid-back charm, and a stay surrounded by nature. From 14th to 17th August, The Westin Goa invites you to unwind with a thoughtfully curated staycation experience that balances comfort with calm.

Guests are welcomed with a special drink on arrival, followed by a thoughtful line-up of experiences: a flag hoisting ceremony on 15th August, a complimentary yoga session, and a chef’s special set menu for lunch or dinner at The Market. From 5 PM to 7 PM, elite hours at Haven bar offer the perfect way to wind down. For families, the Westin Family Kids Club features specially designed activities, and children below 12 years stay and dine free.

Other highlights include 25% off on food, beverages, spa and laundry, 20% off tickets to the Museum of Goa, a complimentary upgrade to the second room category (subject to availability), and early check-in at 12 PM with late check-out at 4 PM.

Whether you’re here for a quiet break or a change of pace, the long weekend stay is an easy escape into nature and comfort, exactly when you need it most.

Experience the Magic of the Midnight Sun in Finland

Why summer in the Nordic north offers an unforgettable escape for Indian travellers

July 31, 2025: When summer peaks in northern Finland, something extraordinary happens, the sun refuses to set. From late May to mid-July, Lapland is bathed in continuous daylight, with golden hues stretching across the sky well past midnight. Even in southern Finland, the nights never turn truly dark, giving way to long, dreamy twilights. For travellers seeking a surreal escape from the heat and bustle back home, this natural wonder offers a rare kind of serenity.

[Credit: Julia Kivelä, Visit Finland]

Roam Wild Landscapes Under the Midnight Sun

In Lapland, daylight blends into night, creating the perfect conditions for outdoor adventures at all hours. From hiking through pine forests near Lake Inari in Ivalo to mountain biking across the scenic trails of Levi in Kittilä, every outdoor activity is infused with the ethereal glow of the Midnight Sun.

Nature lovers can explore Oulanka National Park in Kuusamo, where the twilight hours bring a deep stillness and increased chances of spotting wildlife. In Rovaniemi, on the banks of the Kemijoki River, travellers can canoe, take a river cruise, or enjoy a floating sauna well into the night, no flashlight needed.

Celebrate Summer Like the Finns

In Finland, the Midnight Sun isn’t just admired, it’s celebrated. Midsummer (called Juhannus) is one of the biggest cultural events of the year, marked by bonfires, music, and gatherings by the water. Travellers can join locals in Rovaniemi for public festivities on the beach or head to Ruka for the Solstice Festival, a vibrant blend of music, art, and nature.

Film buffs may enjoy the Midnight Sun Film Festival in Sodankylä, where screenings run day and night, echoing the endless light outside. Meanwhile, the Ijahis Idja Festival in Inari showcases Sámi music, offering a unique insight into indigenous Nordic culture.

Not Just the Arctic Circle

In southern Finland, the sun dips just below the horizon, and in mid-summer, twilight lasts all night. In Helsinki, the city’s waterfront terraces, parks, and islands truly come alive. Whether picnicking in Kaivopuisto park or catching sunset views from a rooftop bar, there’s no rush to call it a night.

For those seeking peace, Helsinki’s lesser-known seaside spots like Lauttasaari or the quiet jetties of Taka-Töölö offer tranquil moments away from crowds. Or for a more immersive experience, consider staying overnight on nearby islands like Pihlajasaari.

Let the Light Lead You

The Midnight Sun isn’t just a phenomenon, it’s a feeling. A freedom from the clock, an invitation to wander, to wonder, and to see the world in a different light. Whether dancing at a lakeside festival or quietly observing the shifting skies from a hilltop, Finnish summer is the kind of experience that stays with you long after you return home.

Finland’s white nights offer an almost dreamlike departure from the familiar. The endless light encourages a slower pace, perfect for long walks, midnight chats by a lake, or simply sitting in nature and soaking it all in. It’s also an ideal escape from India’s intense summer heat, with cool, crisp air and wide-open landscapes. With direct flights operating between New Delhi and Helsinki via Finnair, this exceptional Nordic destination is now more accessible than ever for Indian travellers.

Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd. Places Order for New Blooming Mill with Danieli India Limited

Mumbai, 31st July 2025: Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd. (MSSSL) is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its growth journey with the placement of an order for a state-of-the-art New Blooming Mill with Danieli India Limited, a global leader in metallurgical equipment and solutions.

The Letter of Intent (LoI) for this landmark project was formally handed over by Mr. Niraj Bajaj, Chairman & Managing Director, Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd., to Mr. Giacomo Mareschi Danieli, Chief Executive Officer, Danieli Group, during a high-level strategic meeting held recently. This investment marks a major leap forward in Mukand Sumi’s commitment to technological advancement, enhanced production capabilities, and quality leadership in the specialty steel sector. The new blooming mill will be capable of rolling up to 200 mm Diameter rounds from blooms up to 380mm x 420 mm, providing enhanced flexibility and improved quality control & optimisation of the product-mix across product lines.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Vipul Mashruwala, President, Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd., said: “This is more than just a capacity expansion – it’s a statement of our intent to lead the future of special steel manufacturing in India. Partnering with Danieli ensures that we are equipped with the best-in-class technology to meet rising domestic and global demand with precision, reliability, and sustainability.”

The upcoming Blooming Mill, to be installed at Mukand Sumi’s plant in Hospet, Karnataka, is expected to significantly boost the company’s capability to produce high-quality special steel products with better yield, improved surface quality, and increased productivity. This is in line with MSSSL’s long-term vision to cater to growing demand across sectors such as automotive, engineering, Bearing, Oil & Gas, energy, and infrastructure.

Novotel Nairobi Westlands to host August Sunday Brunch.

Nairobi, July 31, 2025:  This August, Novotel Nairobi Westlands one of Accor’s Flagship properties, is set to host a special edition of its beloved Sunday Family Brunch on August 3, 2025, bringing in a taste of togetherness.

Taking place at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Gemma’s Italian Restaurant, this special brunch will run from 12:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M., offering more than just a meal and celebrating tradition, taste, and togetherness

Guests will enjoy live food stations featuring various options accompanied by live band music, creating the perfect mood for the weekend. Brunch packages are available at KSH 5,000 per person for the non-alcoholic option, and KSH 6,500 for the alcoholic package.

The special brunch has been designed with families in mind. The event is kid-friendly, with children under 5 dining free and those aged 5–13 enjoying 50% off.

“This brunch is designed to bring people together in a warm and friendly environment to create lasting memories over great music and food,” said Mr. Fabio Gonçalves, General Manager, Novotel Nairobi Westlands. “We are inviting everybody to be part of this special afternoon and experience our hospitality and vibrant atmosphere.”